China video site: US TV show ban not policy change

An online streaming website shows a description of American TV show "The Big Bang Theory" but it no longer have access to episodes in the series on a computer screen in Beijing Sunday. Pic: AP.

BEIJING (AP) — The boss of a Chinese online video site says he believes the sudden banning of four American TV shows does not represent a wider trend.

The government’s broadcast regulator issued a surprise order last week to online streaming companies to stop showing “The Big Bang Theory,” ”The Good Wife,” ”NCIS” and “The Practice.” It was unclear why those shows were targeted.

Nasdaq-listed Sohu boss Charles Zhang said he believes the decision does not indicate a change in policy toward American TV shows.

Zhang said Monday he had no explanation for the order and no comment on the possible reason. He said he doesn’t know if the ban will be temporary or permanent.